Country of Love
In a country so synonymous with love, it can be hard to decide where to pick for a romantic Italian holiday – from a quiet countryside escape to canals filled with serenading gondoliers, Italy really does have it all.
To help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up our five favourite couples escapes for 2019. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or honeymoon, or simply want to spend a memorable holiday with someone special, these destinations promise to add a touch of romance to your holiday.
1. Lake Como
The ink blue waters of Lake Como are framed by snow-capped mountains, palatial villas and sleepy resorts that create an impossibly-beautiful backdrop. Take a romantic boat ride along the peaceful lake and stop for a dinner for two in one of Bellagio’s lakeside restaurants.
2. Amalfi Coast
The pastel-coloured houses on the Amalfi Coast spill down the cliff side into the sparkling Mediterranean waters. Boats spend their days sailing between the little towns, and you can even charter your own for a sunset cruise with prosecco. The hotel’s here are perfect for couples, too – opt for a cliff-edge property like Convento di Amalfi, a converted monastery with sea views from every room, or the exclusive Belmond Hotel Caruso for peaceful panoramas from the infinity pool that sits 1,000 above sea level.
3. Venice
Venice is a city that’s perfect for lovers – clam waters meander under ornate bridges, leading to wonderful piazzas and the iconic Gothic buildings that line the Grand Canal. It’s no surprise the city is considered one of the most romantic in the world. Fill your days with romantic strolls, gondola rides and cosy dinners listening to live music. For an even more special trip, begin or end your holiday with a journey on the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
4. Tuscany
Tuscany has everything you need for a romantic holiday – rolling hills, fantastic food and luxurious hotels. Head south to the Val d’Orcia for the picture-perfect views of Tuscany’s hills, choose the Chianti region for a scenery of vineyards and hilltop walled towns or stay in the north where five-star hotels like Bagni di Pisa use natural thermal waters to create wonderful spas. If you can’t decide what sounds better, do all three and hire a car to turn your Tuscany holiday into a multi-centre adventure.
5. Sardinia
Beach escapes don’t get much more romantic than Sardinia. The island’s white sands and clear waters rival those of the Caribbean and glamorous seaside resorts like Porto Cervo add a touch of la dolce vita. Sardinia is brimming with romantic hotels and plenty of hidden coves for when you want to get away from it all.